Brick, stone, and masonry are porous materials that require regular masonry waterproofing to ensure longevity. Without it, these surfaces are at risk for hairline cracks, mortar deterioration, and hazardous mildew and mold growth.
Moisture Penetration
Masonry walls are susceptible to rain penetration, often resulting in damp patches that damage wallpaper, plaster, and paint. The cause is usually because building materials like brick are porous and absorb rain, causing a wall to become saturated with penetrating dampness. Poor installation of cavity wall insulation and wall ties or changes to the structure that affect the weather protection can also be to blame for this.
Providing drainage and waterproofing solutions will help protect brick, concrete, and other masonry structures. Waterproofing products offer a cold fluid-applied formula that doesn’t require pre-mixing or pre-wetting and can be applied with a brush or sprayer to provide an invisible coating. It also includes a biocide that resists mildew growth on the dry paint film. Repairing leaking gutters, downpipes, roof damage, and damaged pointing will also help prevent penetrating dampness. Using a damp proof course or repointing additive from Stormdry will also boost the wall’s ability to repel moisture without changing its visual appearance.
Efflorescence
Brick, stone, and masonry are extremely dense, tensile materials with impressive strength. But even these robust building materials can be damaged by excessive moisture penetration. This leads to hairline cracks, mortar deterioration, mildew, and mold growth. Masonry waterproofing contractor a barrier against moisture penetration, eliminating efflorescence and limiting the growth of contaminants.
Efflorescence is a chalky white substance that forms on the surface of masonry walls. Although it looks unsightly, this crystalline formation is not a structural issue, and it can be cleaned with diluted vinegar or a commercial cleanser low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
The appearance of efflorescence is often an indication of a moisture problem. The soluble salts that form on the surface of masonry may be caused by water, rain and snow, groundwater wicking, condensation, or interior activities. Using low-alkali cement in the construction of masonry helps reduce efflorescence. Efflorescence can be temporary during construction when masonry is exposed to the elements or become a long-term problem.
Mold Growth
Mold growth on brick walls is a major concern for homeowners. It can produce allergenic spores that can cause respiratory problems for those who suffer from allergies or asthma. These spores can also trigger sinus irritation.
Mold growth is often caused by condensation or other masonry building fabric dampness. It is important to ensure all sources of dampness are investigated and treated by a fully qualified damp surveyor.
It is also advisable to seal masonry bricks regularly, particularly where there are exposed edges or a change in cladding type. This will help protect the masonry from moisture infiltration and improve the brick’s appearance.
Structural Damage
In recent decades there has been a movement toward green building sensibilities. This includes constructing concrete structures designed to last an appropriate lifespan with minimal maintenance and repair costs.
To maintain structural integrity, masonry and brick structures must be protected from moisture penetration. When water penetrates masonry, it causes damage to the brick-and-mortar. This damage can cause serious structural problems in the future that can be costly to repair.
Injection DPCs involve injecting samples of liquid solution directly into the mortar joints or drilling holes into walls to create a barrier against moisture ingress. This method is commonly used to deal with rising dampness. It can also be used in masonry refurbishment to prevent further water ingress and damage. However, injection DPCs are less effective than a surface treatment like masonry cream. This treatment is injected into the brick and binds with it, creating a permanent and durable layer of protection.
